محمدحسین همتی

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the relationship between economic policy uncertainty and corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices, considering the moderating role of government ownership among firms listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange (TSE). Methodology/Design/Approach: The research is applied in nature, covering the period 2017–2022. A sample of 100 companies was selected using the targeted elimination method. The hypotheses were tested using multiple regression analysis to examine the impact of both direct and indirect indicators of economic uncertainty on CSR activities. Findings: The results reveal that the inflation rate (a direct indicator of economic uncertainty) has a positive and significant relationship with CSR participation, while GDP (an indirect indicator) shows a negative and significant relationship. These findings suggest that as economic uncertainty increases, firms tend to engage more in CSR activities. However, in government-owned companies, greater economic uncertainty leads to reduced CSR participation. Innovation: This study contributes to the literature by highlighting how economic uncertainty shapes CSR practices and demonstrating the contrasting effects in private versus government-owned firms. The findings offer practical implications for policymakers and corporate managers seeking to balance economic conditions with social responsibility commitments.